Home / Environment / India's Mammals Revealed: An 800-Page Scientific Expedition
India's Mammals Revealed: An 800-Page Scientific Expedition
19 Sep
Summary
- An 800-page guide details 454 mammalian species found across India.
- The book features conservation prescriptions for species like elephants and bats.
- It draws on over a century of scientific literature and museum research.
A monumental 800-page guide, "Mammals of India," offers an exhaustive look at the nation's 454 mammalian species. Authored by the late wildlife biologist AJT Johnsingh and PO Nameer, the book details everything from species' food and habitats to anatomy. It is designed to be accessible to both researchers and students, featuring fluid design, distribution maps by Raghunath Rangaswamy, and illustrations by Chirag Thumbar.
The guide distinguishes itself by including conservation prescriptions for key species like elephants, bears, tigers, leopards, and bats. It highlights the threats faced by bats, such as habitat destruction and climate change, emphasizing the need for increased research, especially in light of recent pandemics. The book also delves into the evolutionary history of mammals in India.
"Mammals of India" is built upon extensive research, citing literature from 1888 and incorporating updates from scientific journals and international natural history museums. It aims to be an updated successor to classic works on Indian fauna, reflecting decades of combined expertise from its authors.
